Gracious and attractive, for me, these two words personify a poised and elegant woman. In fact, there is someone who immediately comes to mind. I grew up in a church tradition where we called the adults “Brother or Sister.” Sister Woodson was an incredible Sunday School teacher. Her voice was soft and loving even when she corrected you. Gracious is a fitting word for her dignified manner. From her exquisite braided crown of hair all the way down to her classic pumps, she was an attractive grace-filled woman. When she taught, the presence of God was evident. His gracious and attractive presence.
As I was reading my Bible today, I came across Colossians 4:6. The New Living Translation says, “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.” How do we have a gracious and attractive conversation? I have to confess that my words don’t always win over friends and influence people. I’ve had to dial down the sarcasm and hold my tongue more often than I care to admit.
When we give in to our impulses, instead of obeying the Holy Spirit with our speech, our words fail to promote God’s message. The right response has an element of graciousness and is attractive. We have to back up to verse five to get context. Colossians 4:5 cautions us, “Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity.”
Living wisely includes our conversations.
How do you respond to drama on social media? I’ve been guilty of typing up an indignant response only to have the Holy Spirit pierce my heart and make me delete it. Being a good digital citizen means cultivating an awareness that our words can be screenshot, circulated, and judged. We, as children of God, must carefully consider the impact of our words. What impact does giving full vent to our opinion have on making Christ known?
When we make mistakes, it’s up to us to repent, apologize, and learn from the experience. There is so much divisiveness in the world today. Where is the graciousness? What type of speech are we attracted to? Do we put what we want to hear out into the atmosphere? It may be old-fashioned and lack value in our social-media-driven lifestyle, but somehow we must get back to conversations that are seasoned with salt. Ones that are palatable, grace-laced, and attractive to non-believers.
Take The Grace
My dearest friend often reminds me to “take the grace” that God has to offer. After reading these two words today, I’m convicted. I need to “take the grace” add it to my conversations, Instagram posts, and interactions with those in my community. One conversation at a time, we can make a difference. We have the power to attract the world through our example, not our opinions.
Let’s Reflect: How important is it to you that your words be gracious and attractive? What do you need to change in your daily conversations? Journal, pray and listen to God’s direction for you.
Let’s Pray: Most gracious and almighty God, Thank You for Your words of wisdom and instruction. Thank You for revealing Your plan for us to be a witness for You in our conversations. Help us to make the most of every opportunity. May we lead others to You through our example as we go about our daily lives. In Jesus Name, we pray. Amen.